(a) the manner in which the IREP programme is being implemented in Jammu & Kashmir and West Bengal;
(b) whether the Government have conducted the study of the progress made in regard to the Integrated Rural Energy Programme;
(c) if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether the desired results of this programme have been achieved; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES (SHRI M. KANNAPPAN)
(a): The Integrated Rural Energy Programme (IREP) is under implementation in 18 Blocks in Jammu & Kashmir where the programme is being implemented by the Department of Science & Technology. IREP is under implementation in 30 Blocks in West Bengal where the programme is being implemented by the Science and Technology Department. The implementation of IREP in these, and other States, is being carried out through two components, namely, the Central sector component under which support is provided for development of capabilities, including provision of staff and their training, and the State sector component under which financial support is provided under the State outlay for promoting various rural energy devices, extension and other related activities.
(b): Yes, Sir.
(c): The latest study on the progress of the IREP entitled `Analysis of IREP and Development of Capacity Building Strategy,` was taken up by the Government with the support of United Nations Development Programme, in twelve States, in the year 1999-2000. The study has brought out that as a result of IREP, minimum infrastructure for preparing rural energy plans and projects at the district and State levels have been set up. Further, IREP has enabled rural people and field development officials to appreciate different dimensions of the rural energy problem and how it should be tackled. IREP has also brought about large-scale awareness about new and renewable energy and need for conservation of energy in rural areas. The study has recommended that IREP should be consolidated; higher levels of support should be provided by the State Governments; and monitoring of the programme should be strengthened.
(d): As brought out in the above study, IREP has achieved success in some aspects, but the implementation aspect needs to be strengthened.
(e): The success has been in terms of setting up infrastructure for rural energy planning and implementation, and promotion of renewable energy devices in IREP blocks. However, implementation of the programme needs to be strengthened in J&K and West Bengal, among other States, for which increased flow of resources is required from the State Governments.